What began as a casual conversation in the “Donald Mums” Facebook Messenger thread turned into a powerful moment of grassroots action last Friday afternoon.
The local chat – usually buzzing with parenting tips and life hacks – took a serious turn when several mums shared their frustration over the latest political announcement from the Victorian Government.
While the state unveiled a new Emergency Services Levy, it also tried to sweeten the blow with a headline-grabbing promise: free public transport for all Victorian children under 18, starting January 1.
But for rural communities like Donald, that promise rings hollow.
“We have no trains, the tram is decommissioned, and the only bus comes through town once a day – early in the morning and only one way,” said local mum of four, Lisa Woods.
“Our kids are being used for political gain without receiving any real benefit.”
Determined to make a statement, the mums put out a last-minute call on social media to meet at the Donald Train Station in front of the disused tram. Within hours, more than 40 young people gathered after school – students from Donald Children’s Centre, Donald Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School, and Donald Secondary College.
“These kids saw straight through the empty promises,” Lisa said. “And without being prompted, they began chanting, ‘Where’s the tram?’ It was chilling to hear. They know they’re being overlooked.”
Video
A short video of the gathering, posted to Facebook, has already reached more than 27,000 views, showing just how deeply the issue resonates with country Victorians.
Local mum and fellow organiser, Alison Duynhoven, added, “A quick comment soon became a whole group of people coming together for a really good cause. We need to advocate for our country kids to get the same opportunities as city kids. We also need to call out these so-called government handouts when they don’t even help those they claim to.”
“The promises of free public transport for kids in Victoria is yet another city-centric policy. Country kids have been forgotten about by our current government,” said Susie, mum of 5.
Buloke Shire Councillor Graeme Milne, who stopped by after seeing the post online, said he was impressed by the turnout.
“It’s remarkable how many students came out to lend their support, especially with so little notice. It shows just how important this issue is to the community,” Cr. Milne said.
At the heart of it all is a simple plea to Premier Jacinta Allan: Country kids count too. Don’t leave us behind.
This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 3 June 2025.
